Broken

I’m reading through A Farewell to Arms for the first time, and it’s a jarring and tough read at times, given the subject matter. Hemingway doesn’t hold back on the brutality of war, the fragility of love, or the deep loneliness that comes with both. But in the midst of it all, there’s a very poignant moment where the protagonist, Frederic Henry, reflects on the way life inevitably breaks people. He says:

“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.”

That line hit me hard. As small business owners, we know what it feels like to be broken—by exhaustion, by unexpected setbacks, by clients who don’t see our value, or by the sheer weight of trying to do it all. Running a business, especially one built on personal relationships and trust, isn’t easy. And yet, just like in the novel, those breaks don’t have to be the end of us. They can be where we rebuild, where we learn, and where we become stronger than before.

So how do we become stronger at the broken places? Here are three ways:

1. Embrace the Lesson, Not Just the Loss

Every setback carries a lesson. Maybe it’s a client relationship that went south, an unexpected financial hit, or burnout that forced you to step back. Instead of just focusing on the pain of the moment, ask: What can I take from this? Maybe you need better policies, clearer boundaries, or more delegation. The break itself isn’t what makes you stronger—it’s what you build after.

2. Lean on Others Instead of Going It Alone

One of the hardest things about running a business is that it can feel isolating. But no one succeeds alone. Finding a community—whether it’s fellow pet sitters, business mentors, or just a trusted friend—can help you see your way through challenges. The times we feel broken are often the times we most need others to remind us of our strength.

3. Redefine Success on Your Terms

Sometimes we feel broken because we’re holding ourselves to the wrong standard. Are you measuring your success by someone else’s highlight reel? By unrealistic expectations? By a never-ending to-do list? Being broken can be an opportunity to reassess—what truly matters to you? What kind of business and life are you actually trying to build? Let the break be the foundation for a better, more sustainable vision of success.

Every challenge you’ve faced—whether it’s a slow season, hiring struggles, or moments of self-doubt—has the potential to make you more resilient, more experienced, and more prepared for what’s ahead. You’re not alone in this. The difficulties of running a business don’t define you—how you grow from them does.

We’re here to remind you that the struggle is part of the journey. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep finding strength in the broken places.

Thanks for being part of this community. We’re honored to walk this path with you.